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Erythroblastosis fetalis, photomicrograph Jaundice infant Exchange transfusion - series
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Newborn jaundice
Alternative Names: Jaundice of the newborn Treatment: Treatment is usually not necessary. Keep the baby well-hydrated with breast milk or formula. Encourage frequent bowel movements by feeding frequently. This is because bilirubin is carried out of the body by the intestines in the stools. (Bilirubin is what gives stool their brown color). Text Continues Below Sometimes artificial lights are used on infants whose levels are very high, or in premature infants. These lights work by helping to break down bilirubin in the skin. The infant is placed naked under artificial light in a protected isolette to maintain constant temperature. The eyes are protected from the light. In the most severe cases of jaundice, an exchange transfusion is required. In this procedure, the baby's blood is replaced with fresh blood. Recently, promising studies have shown that treating severely jaundiced babies with intravenous immunoglobulin is very effective at reducing the bilirubin levels to safe ranges. Expectations (prognosis): The jaundice usually resolves without treatment within 1 to 2 weeks. Complications: Rare, but serious, complications from high bilirubin levels include: Kernicterus -- brain damage from very high bilirubin levels Deafness Cerebral palsy Calling your health care provider: Jaundice is an emergency if the baby has a fever, has become listless, or is not feeding well. Jaundice is dangerous in small, sick, and particularly acidotic newborns. Page:  1 | 2 | Next >>